The "Star Spangled Banner" has performed well in its role as the representation American values since it became our national anthem. However, our nation has since evolved in a way that Mr. Key could not hope to have predicted when he conceived the song in 1816. Since 1816, our nation has shifted towards a more individualist culture; as a nation, our individuality and personal freedom is more important than our desire to conform to the general beliefs of our nation. Ms. Swift’s song encourages people to celebrate their individuality by shaking off the ridicule they may receive for expressing themselves, thus serving as a poignant reminder that, we are different, yes, but it is in our rejection of "haters" and our embrace of our true selves that make our great nation possible.



